Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, 2025, pleading for international help to halt Russia’s invasion.
He highlighted the risk of a harmful arms competition fueled by the conflict, especially in drone technology.
AI and Drone Concerns
Zelenskiy pushed for worldwide standards to limit artificial intelligence in weaponry, pointing to rapid drone advancements in Ukraine.
He blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for aiming to widen the war beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Trump Meeting Aftermath
The speech followed Zelenskiy’s UN meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, where Trump took a hard line on Russia.
Trump suggested Ukraine could reclaim all seized territory and backed downing Russian jets in NATO airspace.
War’s Toll
Since Russia’s 2022 full invasion, sparking Europe’s biggest war since World War II, Ukraine has relied on Western aid.
Trump has resisted strong sanctions or new military help, favoring Europe taking more responsibility.
U.S.-Russia Talks
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in New York for 50 minutes.
Vice President JD Vance said Trump is “growing impatient” with Russia’s lack of serious peace talks, warning of consequences if they stall.
Ukraine’s Export Push
Zelenskiy announced Ukraine will export weapons to allies, sharing battle-tested tech.
“We’re opening up arms sales to strengthen your security,” he said, easing prior export limits when stocks are secure. “You don’t need to reinvent—use what’s proven in war.”
Putin’s Expansion
Zelenskiy cited Russian drone and jet incursions into NATO nations like Poland and Estonia as Putin testing limits. “Russian operations are spreading, and no one is safe,” he warned.
Global Stakes
The address stresses the need for unity to counter Russia’s aggression and prevent a destructive tech arms race.
